Finding the perfect venue for your wedding is only half the battle. Negotiating a price for that venue can easily turn into a tug-of-war if you let it. Instead, think of the process as a dance, and take the lead. Here are some tips to help you find and secure the ideal venue.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Check out wedding blogs, wedding magazines and your local newspapers for top-notch wedding and events venues in your area. Look for unbiased checklists that give you a selection of venues, their amenities and their costs. Narrow down your top choices and take trips around the same time of day as when you hope to host your wedding. You’ll get a real feel for the atmosphere and environment of the site, and you’ll have an easier time envisioning your wedding taking place there.
LOOK AT YOUR VENUE'S COLOR SCHEME
If you’re on a tight budget, look for a ceremony site that really resonates with the style and feel that you want to create for your Big Day. If the decor, style and colors coincide with the colors of the venue you choose, the less you will have to spend on decor to fit the theme of your wedding. Notice the patterns and color schemes used on the floors, walls, fixtures.
FIND TWO-IN-ONE LOCATIONS
Try to find a ceremony site that also has a place for your reception. That way, you won’t have to worry about the cost or hassle of transportation from the ceremony to the reception, your vendors won’t charge you for extra travel time and expenses, and you won’t have to stress about anyone getting lost.
INQUIRE ABOUT THE EXTRAS
Take advantage of the extra's your venue may have to offer. Some event venues offer mirrors and votive candles to add to your table decor. Mirrors are placed under your centerpieces and reflect light from candlelight, to create depth and a visual focus as candle light and the glass or even crystal of light from the tables candle holders, stemware or chandeliers. illuminate your table decor and naturally connects your guest's focus to the beauty of your wedding arrangements. When against the lighting of the room, making them appear larger. The more you can bring to the venue on your own, the less you’ll get duped into paying fine-print fees.
CONSULT A WEDDING PLANNER
It may seem like a splurge to hire a wedding planner, but that expense can end up saving you a good chunk of money with the difference their advice and expertise can make. A wedding planner has all the right contacts, knows all the best venues and can help you negotiate the best price for your site.
GET A CONTRACT
You absolutely need to get a venue contract. You need to know exactly what you’re paying for and exactly what you can expect from the venue. Venue contracts should clarify the terms of liability, insurance and cancellation policies, so you'll know what to expect in worst-case scenarios. You should consider hiring a family lawyer that specializes in events to look over the contract and help you negotiate the best possible terms of the agreement. A wedding planner is also qualified for this task, as they will know what to look for as far as red flags, hidden fees and other necessary articles.